Irish Pastoral Centre - Senior notes

Friendly competition was the name of the game at the Cara Club this week. We were joined by quizmaster Neil Hurley who tested our general and Irish knowledge. Great fun was had by all and a big thanks to Neil for his time and effort! Kevin finished off the afternoon with some musical treats, thanks again Kevin. We also welcomed some new members to the Cara Club, which is great to see as all are welcome! Special thanks to our volunteers who made the afternoon such a success. There will not be any meeting of the Cara Club next week due to Veterans Day. See you all on the 19th!

Café Eireann ~ Dorchester

Café Eireann also had the opportunity to stretch its competitive muscles this week! Neil joined us again in Dorchester, where he encouraged more friendly competition which resulted in many laughs. All enjoyed the morning thoroughly and a big thanks again to Neil for joining us and for all his effort! Thanks again to our great volunteers who turned up and helped out despite the wintry weather conditions. As always they ensure the morning runs without a hiccup! Next week we will be joined by Marie Burke of Celtic Angels. She will be offering health checks as well as giving us some health tips for the Winter Season ahead. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

‘Music for Memory’ Singing Group at a new time!

Join us this week at ‘Music for Memory’s’ new time slot, Wednesday, November 14th from 12:00noon to 2:00pm . This is a drop in singing group at the Irish Pastoral Centre with Maureen and Gerry McNally. It promises to be a very relaxed, enjoyable and stimulating afternoon. The group aims to encourage participants to explore and discover that singing can unlock the brain. Refreshments served, suggested donation of $3.00-$5.00.

Medicare’s open enrollment period

Medicare is a national health insurance program for people who are 65 or older. Each year Medicare users get the opportunity to change their options and cover. This applies to Medicare, Medicare Advantage and the Part D prescription drug plan. Open enrollment began on October 15th and ends on December 7th. Any changes made then take effect on January 1st, 2013.

During this period, you can:

Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Switch Medicare Advantage plans.

Drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare

Join, drop, or switch Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.

Your health needs and Medicare benefits can change on an annual basis. This is a good opportunity to compare your options to ensure to have the right fit and coverage.

For example, during this year have you changed the medications you take? Or been diagnosed with a new medical condition? The above changes could mean that your current Medicare plan may not meet your needs.

You should compare the plans available to you and enroll in a new plan if you choose. You can do this by visiting Medicare.gov or calling 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). (AARP, 2012).

Please feel free to call Eileen at 617 265 5300 x13 for more information on IPC Senior Citizen Outreach Program activities and services.